Mental Health Minute: The Healthiest Way to Deal With Painful Memories

Do you carry any painful memories with you from the past? Wish you could just get rid of them and move on? I know, easier said than done, but researchers have a tip that may help, and it's worth trying...

How do you deal with pain from the past? Do you return to hurtful episodes in your life, replaying them like horror movies in your mind? Learning to reframe your memories of the past may be the key to happiness, say researchers at San Francisco State University. Those who choose to focus on the happier memories of the past and put a positive spin on negative experiences are happier than those who focus on regrets and bad memories, according to a new study published in the journal Personality and Individual Differences.

The researchers found that certain personality types--extroverted people, for instance--have an easier time keeping positive memories about the past. However, they say that anyone can learn to reframe their memories with happiness in mind.

"This is good news because although it may be difficult to change your personality, you may be able to alter your view of time and boost your happiness," one of the researchers said to ScienceDaily.

Today's challenge: When you think of a sad memory from the past, try reframing it in a happier light. Maybe your dog died, for example, but instead of dwelling on how sad it was to lose him, think about how much fun you had going on long jogs with him, and how he waited for you by the door with a huge grin every time you came home from school. after all, you can always get a new puppy! :)

__

How do you deal with painful memories from the past? Are you good at moving on from them or do you tend to revisit them? __

*Relationship violence kills 4 women a DAY in the U.S. If you or someone you know is being abused, Tell Somebody. Text TELLNOW to 85944 to make a $10 donation that will go toward keeping the National Domestic Violence hotline (800-799-SAFE) open. The Avon Foundation will match every dollar you donate up to $200,000. Find out more about our texting campaign. *More Ways to Get Glamour: